The Tonight Show with Jay Leno Season 13 Episode 80 Tribute To Johnny Carson
- January 24, 2005
Tribute To Johnny Carson
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno season 13 episode 80 is a special tribute episode dedicated to the late Johnny Carson. Johnny Carson was one of the most iconic television hosts of all time, and his 30-year run as the host of The Tonight Show helped define American pop culture for generations.
The episode features a variety of guests who knew Carson well and who were influenced by his work. Jay Leno, of course, hosts the episode and shares stories about his relationship with Carson both on and off the show. Other guests include David Letterman, who succeeded Carson as host of Late Show; Bette Midler, a frequent guest on Carson's show; and Steve Martin, who appeared on The Tonight Show more than 50 times during Carson's tenure.
Throughout the episode, guests share their favorite memories of Carson and discuss his impact on the television industry. There are also video clips of some of Carson's most memorable moments, such as his famous "Carnac the Magnificent" sketches and his interviews with guests like Muhammad Ali and Ronald Reagan.
One of the highlights of the episode is a performance by Kevin Eubanks and the Tonight Show Band. Eubanks was Carson's longtime musical director, and his performance serves as a tribute to Carson's love of jazz music. There are also appearances by other members of the Carson crew, such as producer Peter Lassally and stage manager Buz Kohan.
Throughout the episode, Leno and his guests reflect on Carson's legacy and his enduring influence. They discuss how Carson's humor and style paved the way for future television hosts and changed the way audiences viewed late-night television. They also talk about Carson's skill as an interviewer and his ability to connect with guests in a way that made them feel at ease.
Ultimately, the Tribute to Johnny Carson episode is a heartfelt and nostalgic look back at one of the most beloved figures in American television history. The guests' stories and memories paint a picture of Carson as a kind, generous, and endlessly talented performer who left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. It's a fitting tribute to a man who helped define a generation, and a reminder of the power of great television to unite and entertain audiences.